2020 Mazda CX-30

Overview

Slotting into the Mazda SUV lineup in the narrow space between the subcompact CX-3 and the compact CX-5 is the new—and curiously named—CX-30. Why isn't it called CX-4? We asked Mazda: It's kind of a long story. Regardless of what it is called, we like the way it looks. Mazda's designers gave it a more severely forward-canted rear window and chunkier black-plastic body cladding to help differentiate the 2020 Mazda CX-30 from its other crossover siblings. The CX-30 comes standard with impressive technology, both in terms of connectivity and driver-assistance features. Equipped with the same perky and responsive engine as the Mazda 3, the CX-30 oozes that enthusiast appeal for which Mazda is famous.

What's New for 2020?

The CX-30 is an all-new model for Mazda, but it shares attributes with other vehicles in the Mazda lineup.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

Base: $23,000

Select: $25,000

Preferred: $27,300

Premium: $29,300

We would choose the Select trim, as you get more features for not much more money. The Select comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and keyless entry. All of the trim levels come with the same 2.5-liter engine and are available with all-wheel drive for another $1400.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

All CX-30s are equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 186 horsepower; a six-speed automatic is the only transmission available and although it chooses gears wisely based on driving conditions, it exhibits an occasional stumble when shifting. If you're a fan of the Mazda 3 hatchback, which we are, you'll find the CX-30 just as nimble, athletic, and fun to drive. Its crisp steering and fluid body movements make it a pleasure to pilot on a twisty road and provide a sense of stability when cruising. At our test track, the CX-30 dawdled to 60 mph in 8.1 seconds, slower than rivals such as the turbocharged Hyundai Kona but much quicker than other non-turbocharged SUVs such as the Nissan Rogue Sport and the Subaru Crosstrek.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The 2020 CX-30 has a handsome, well-crafted interior; it's shared with that of the Mazda 3, which we love. An infotainment display sprouts from the center of the dashboard and is controlled by a rotary knob on the center console; a row of climate-control buttons divide the upper and lower dash panels. Buyers can choose between either an eight- or 12-speaker audio system and can upgrade to available heated front seats. Going with the top-spec Premium trim adds leather upholstery, a power-operated rear liftgate, and other luxury items that put the CX-30 in contention with luxury-brand offerings such as the Lexus UX and the Mini Countryman. As far as cargo-carrying capability goes, the CX-30 isn't the most voluminous SUV you can buy, but we did fit six carry-on suitcases behind the rear seats and 16 in total with the rear seats folded.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The CX-30 comes with a standard 8.8-inch screen and Mazda Connected Services, which allows owners to lock and unlock, remote start, and monitor their vehicle through the MyMazda app. The CX-30 also is equipped with standard Bluetooth, two front USB inputs, and Wi-Fi hotspot capability. Available features include Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration and SiriusXM satellite radio.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Neither the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) nor the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) have tested the CX-30. Nonetheless, there are a number of impressive standard driver-assistance features that come on the all-new vehicle, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist with lane-departure warning, and automated emergency braking. Available features include a head-up display and blind-spot monitoring. Key safety features include:

Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection

Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist

Standard adaptive cruise control

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Specific warranty information hasn't been released, but we anticipate that the coverage will be the same as the other Mazda vehicles. Both Hyundai and Kia easily best Mazda's warranty with both offering 10 years or 100,000 miles of powertrain coverage.